Speaking+First Edi

Contents
Introduction
Frequently asked questions
Speaking Test 1
1: Holidays and travelling; Free time; Television
2: 1 Spending time together; 2 Eating out
3 & 4: Choosing a place to study
Speaking Test 2
1: Studying; Celebrations; The internet and social media
2: 1 Explanations; 2 Jobs
3 & 4: Taking up a sport
Speaking Test 3
1: Music; Eating out; Friends
2: 1 Couples on holiday; 2 College life
3 & 4: Choosing an artistic career
Speaking Test 4
1: Shopping; Cooking; Employment
2: 1 Reading carefully; 2 Spending time outdoors
3 & 4: Using the internet
Speaking Test 5
1: Where you live; Emails and letters; College / school
2: 1 Working with animals; 2 Receiving presents
3 & 4: Living abroad
Speaking Test 6
1: Animals and pets; Healthy habits; Keeping in touch
2: 1 Waiting patiently; 2 Professionals discussing
3 & 4: Taking care of the environment
Speaking Test 7
1: Journeys; Arts; Computers
2: 1 Trying to concentrate; 2 Doing the shopping
3 & 4: Improving life in the city
Speaking Test 8
1: Flying; Travelling abroad; Advice
2: 1 Learning in different ways; 2 Means of transport
3 & 4: Improving a local college
Speaking Test 9
1: Celebrities; Extreme sports; Money and jobs
2: 1 Taking a break; 2 Using electronic devices
3 & 4: Reducing traffic in cities
Speaking Test 10
1: Adventure activities; Being at home; Languages
2: 1 Spending the weekend; 2 Taking pictures
3 & 4: Young people earning money
Model answers to Speaking Test 1
Introduction
The B2 First exam, formerly known as the First Certificate in English (FCE), is an examination developed
by Cambridge Assessment English, which is part of the University of Cambridge.
The B2 First is usually taken by candidates who want to obtain a B2-level certificate, which corresponds to
an upper-intermediate level of English. As described by the Common European Framework of Reference
for Languages (CEFRL), candidates with a B2 level are considered independent vantage users, thus
being able to understand the main ideas of complex tests, to interact with a certain degree of fluency and
spontaneity, both in written and oral form, and to produce clear and detailed texts on a range of subjects.
This book aims to provide meaningful speaking practice while following the format of the B2 First Speaking
paper. Both teachers and candidates can benefit from this resource, in that they can familiarise
themselves with the format and level of the exam, and the type of questions and topics covered.
Furthermore, and most importantly, students can learn, through repetitive practice, what to expect on the
day of their speaking exam.
B2 First: Speaking Parts

The Speaking paper is one of the five papers that comprise the B2 First examination. This section of the
exam is taken in pairs, or trios, of candidates, who are assessed by two examiners: the interlocutor and
the assessor. The interlocutor is responsible for delivering the instructions, handling the test booklet and
interacting with the candidates, while the assessor simply listens and marks each candidate’s
performance.
The Speaking paper is divided into four parts, all of which comprise a different task. Different degrees of
participation are expected from the candidates in each of these tasks.
Part 1
In Part 1, candidates are asked questions mainly about themselves, their background and their
experiences. It starts with a set of brief introductory questions (e.g. …and your names are? Where are you
from?) and continues with one or more topic-based questions. These topics may include things like
holidays and travel, leisure-time activities, friends and family, television, etc. To these questions,
candidates are expected to provide brief but complete answers.
Timing 2 minutes (pair) / 3 minutes (trio)
Giving personal information, expressing opinions about various topics and talking about
Focus
past experiences.
Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate
4
Part 2
In Part 2, each candidate is asked to talk about two photographs and also to answer a question about their
partner’s photographs. Each candidate must compare a pair of pictures and answer a question about
those pictures in one minute. Following this, the other candidate is asked a different question related to the
pictures themselves or the topic of the pictures (thirty seconds). The pair of photographs and questions is
different for each candidate.
Focus Describing, comparing, expressing opinions and speculating.
Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate
Part 3
Part 3 is the main collaborative task of the exam. In this part, candidates are presented with a topic in the
form of a question (e.g. What are the advantages and disadvantages of studying in these places?) and a
few prompts linked to it (e.g. a bedroom, a friend’s house, the library, etc.). The candidates are then
expected to develop a two-minute discussion around the topic, making use, if necessary, of the prompts
provided. When the two minutes are up, they are asked to make a decision with regard to the topic (e.g.
…decide what the best place to study is during the final exams period.). The candidates have one more
minute to complete the task.
Discussing, exchanging ideas, agreeing and disagreeing, asking for opinions, explaining
Focus
views, justifying opinions, reaching agreements, making decisions, etc.
Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate – Candidate
Part 4
In Part 4, candidates are asked some questions which stem from the discussion topic in Part 3. These are
questions that normally touch on complex issues like education, learning, healthy habits, careers, new
technologies, etc. The candidates are expected to develop extended answers and may be prompted to
exchange views rather than answer individually.
Exchanging ideas, extending and explaining answers, agreeing and disagreeing and
Focus
justifying opinions.
Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate – Candidate
I hope that you will find this resource a useful study aid, and I wish you all the best in preparing for the
exam.
5
Frequently asked questions
Is the Speaking exam taken individually or in pairs?

The Speaking test is taken in pairs or trios, unless a candidate has special needs that may affect their
performance. This may lead to them taking the test individually. However, regular tests are normally taken
in pairs, and if there is an uneven number of candidates, only the last three candidates will take the exam
as a trio.
Can candidates choose to do the test with a friend or classmate?

This depends on the examination centre candidates register with. Each centre has its own policy and this
may or may not be allowed. In the end, it is up to the supervisor of the exam to allow it or not, and the
decision will be based on exam timing and logistics rather than candidates’ preferences.
Do candidates have to speak with each other at some point?

Yes, they do. Candidates must always speak to each other in Part 3 and usually in Part 4. The rest of the
test is carried out individually yet, in their answers, candidates can refer to what the other candidate has
said earlier in the test.
How many people are there in the Speaking room?

In the Speaking room there can be up to five people: two examiners and two or three candidates.
Occasionally, there may be a third examiner, but their role will not be to assess the candidates.
What happens if the interlocutor interrupts a candidate when the time of a task is over?
This is completely normal and candidates should expect to be interrupted when the time is up. The
interlocutor’s job involves ensuring that every candidate has the same opportunities to speak, which
includes having the same time allocated to do so. If a candidate has developed their answer well and has
responded fully, but with time to spare, they will not lose marks.
In Part 3, must candidates reach an agreement by the end of the task?

Not at all. The purpose of the test is to assess candidates’ speaking skills, not the completion of the task
or the conveyance of their opinions. Candidates are only expected to develop a discussion in which they
work towards an agreement or decision by means of exchanging views and opinions, and agreeing and
disagreeing. Whether or not they have reached an agreement by the end of the task is irrelevant to their
mark.
In Part 3, do candidates have to talk about all the different prompts?

No, this is not necessary. The prompts in this part of the test are there to ensure that candidates have
some ideas to talk about and that they engage in a discussion. However, they are not necessarily
expected to use all of them, nor are they limited to those prompts; they can bring their own ideas into the
discussion.
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What do candidates need to take to the Speaking exam?
Candidates need to take a valid form of photographic ID (Passport, National Identity Card, Driver’s
Licence, etc.) and their Confirmation of Entry, which is a document provided by the examination centre
some time before the test.
What are the mark sheets mentioned at the beginning of the exams?
The mark sheets contain each candidate’s name, surname and their candidate number, and this is where
the assessor writes their marks. These sheets are given to candidates before they enter the examination
room, and they will have to give them to the interlocutor at the beginning of the test. The examiners will
then keep the mark sheets to relay or send the candidates’ marks to Cambridge Assessment English.
Where does the Speaking exam take place?

The Speaking exam can take place in a range of venues, but it is most likely to take place in the
examination centre itself (usually a language school) or one of its examination venues, which also tend to
be language schools. Some other examination venues may be hotels or conference rooms.
Is the Speaking exam done the same day as the other parts of the test?
Not normally, but it can happen. Given the length of the whole exam, it is usually more practical and
reasonable to do the Speaking test on a different day. This is decided by the examination centres and
candidates are informed of this well in advance.
Will the examiners be looking at the candidates throughout the whole test?
No, they will not. Examiners, especially the assessor, have to assign marks while the exam is taking
place. For this reason, there will be times throughout the test when they might be looking at their examiner
booklets or candidate mark sheets instead of the candidates. However, this does not mean that they are
not paying attention to the candidates and their responses.
How is the Speaking exam marked?

Each candidate’s performance throughout the test is marked both by the interlocutor and the assessor,
who give candidates a score for five different categories: grammar and vocabulary, discourse
management, pronunciation, interactive communication and global performance. The assessor is
responsible for assessing the first four categories, which account for two thirds of the score, and the
interlocutor awards the global mark, which comprises one third of the final speaking score.
Can the other candidate’s performance affect a candidate’s score?

No, it cannot. Although the exam is taken in pairs or trios, candidates are assessed individually and
examiners are duly trained to do so, ensuring that both candidates have the same opportunities to speak
and thus can be marked separately.
Can I memorise some answers for the exam?

While the introductory questions are common to all tests, candidates are advised not to prepare long
answers in advance or to memorise short speeches. Examiners can easily tell when a candidate is using a
pre-learned speech and will interrupt them when they feel it is necessary to do so.
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8
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 1
9
Test 1 – Part 1 Cambridge B2 First: Speaking
2 minutes (3 minutes for groups of three)
Candidates’ background
Good morning/afternoon/evening. My name is !!!!! and this is my colleague !!!!! .
And your names are?
Can I have your mark sheets, please?
Thank you.
• Where are you from, (Candidate A)?

• And you, (Candidate B)?
First, we’d like to know something about you.
Select one or more questions from any of the following categories, as appropriate.
Holidays and travelling
• When was the last time that you went on holiday? !! (What did you do?)
• When you’re on holiday, how do you like to travel? !! (Why?)
• How often do you travel abroad? !! (Would you like to travel more?) !! (Why?)
• Is there a country that you would really like to visit in the future? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Free time
• How do you like to spend your free time? !! (Why?)
• How much free time do you have? !! (Do you think it’s enough?)
• Do you prefer to spend your free time alone or with friends? !! (Why?)
• Is there a new leisure-time activity you’d like to try? !! (Which one?) !! (Why?)
Television
• Do you enjoy watching TV? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you think people spend too much time watching TV nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Have you ever appeared on TV? (Tell us about it.)
• Is there a programme you particularly enjoy watching? !! (Tell us about it.)
10
11
Cambridge B2 First: Speaking Test 1 – Part 2

1 Spending time together 2 Eating out
Interlocutor In this part of the test, I’m going to give each of you two photographs. I’d like you to talk about your
photographs on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question about your partner’s
photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people spending time
together.
Place Part 2 Task 1, in front of Candidate A.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think the people are enjoying about
spending time together.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
Interlocutor Thank you.
(Candidate B), do you often spend time with your family? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Approximately 30 seconds
Interlocutor Thank you. (Can I have the booklet, please?) Retrieve Part 2 Task 1.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people having lunch in different
places.
Place Part 2 Task 2, in front of Candidate B.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people have chosen to eat
in these places.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), where do you usually eat with your friends? !! (Why?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
11
Task 1
What are the people enjoying about spending time together?
12
13

Task 2
Why have the people chosen to eat in these places?
13
Choosing a place to study
Interlocutor Now, I’d like you to talk about something together for about two minutes (3 minutes for groups of
three).
Here are some places where people sometimes choose to study and a question for you to
discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Place Part 3 Task 3, in front of the candidates. Allow 15 seconds.
Now, talk to each other about the advantages and disadvantages of studying in these
places.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide what is the best place to study during
the exam periods.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
Interlocutor Use the following questions, in order, as appropriate:
• Do you think that we study the right

subjects at school? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people say it’s more important to
study science than history. What’s your opinion?
• Some people believe that practical experience is more useful than studying
theory. Do you agree? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you believe teachers should be paid a higher salary than sportspeople?
!! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people say that teachers and children get too many holidays. What do you
think?
• Do you think that parents and teachers have the same responsibility in children’s
education? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Interlocutor Thank you. That is the end of the test.
14
15
Cambridge B2 First: Speaking
a bedroom What are the the park

advantages and
disadvantages of
studying in these
places?
15
a friend’s house the living room
the library
Test 1 – Part 3
Task 3
Mark sheet Cambridge B2 First: Speaking
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Grammar and vocabulary 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Discourse management 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Interactive communication 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors
• Degree of control of grammatical forms.

Grammar and vocabulary
• Range of vocabulary used to give and exchange views.
• Stretches of language produced.

Discourse management
• Relevance of contributions and organisation of ideas.
• Use of appropriate cohesive devices and discourse markers.
• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress
• Individual sounds
• Initiating, responding and linking contributions to those of other

speakers.
Interactive communication
• Maintaining and developing interaction, and negotiating.
Assessment notes
16
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 2
17
And your names are?
Thank you.

Studying
• How often do you have to study nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• If you had the chance, what would you like to study in the future? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you think it’s useful to study a foreign language? !! (Why / Why not?)
• In your opinion, what’s the worst thing about studying? !! (Why?)
Celebrations
• Do you enjoy family celebrations? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• How did you celebrate your last birthday? !! (Did you enjoy yourself?)
• How do you celebrate New Year’s Eve? !! (Do you like it?) !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Are there any traditional celebrations in your country? !! (What are they?)
The internet and social media
• Do you use the internet much? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Tell us about a website you visit regularly. !! (Why do you visit it?)
• Do you and your friends communicate online? !! (How do you communicate?)
• What’s your favourite social networking site? !! (Why?)
18
1 Explanations 2 Jobs
photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people explaining
something to others.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think the people might be explaining.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), which explanation do you think is the most important? !! (Why?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people doing different jobs.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think the people are enjoying about
their job.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), which job would you prefer to do? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
19
Task 1
What might the people be explaining?
20
Task 2
What are the people enjoying about their job?
21
Taking up a sport
three).
Here are some reasons why people decide to take up a sport and a question for you to
Now, talk to each other about why most people decide to take up a sport.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide what is the best reason for people to
take up a new sport.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• What are the advantages and disadvantages

of doing exercise on a regular basis?
• In your opinion, is it better to do many sports
or just one? !! (Why?)
• Some people think that gyms are the best place to do exercise and get fit.
What do you think? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Why do you think some people enjoy doing dangerous sports?
• Some people believe that sportspeople are good role models for children.
Do you agree? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you think that doing Physical Education at school is important?
22
to get fit and healthy to look better

Why do most people
decide to take up a
sport?
23
to make new friends to relax
to spend their free

time
Test 2 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
24
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 3
25
And your names are?
Thank you.

Music
• Do you listen to music every day? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is music important in your life? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you ever go to live concerts? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What types of music do you listen to when you need to relax?
Eating out
• How often do you eat in a restaurant? !! (Would you like to eat out more often?)
• Do you prefer to eat out or at home? !! (Why?)
• Who do you normally eat out with? !! (Why?)
• Do you enjoy cooking for yourself at home? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Friends
• Do you still have the same friends you had when you were younger? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do most of your friends live near you? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• How often do you see your best friends? !! (Do you miss them?)
• When was the last time you had a good time with your friends? !! (What did you do?)
26
1 Couples on holiday 2 College life
photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show couples enjoying their
holidays in different ways.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think they are enjoying about these
types of holidays.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), what type of holiday would you prefer to go on? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show students in college spending time in
different places.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the students are spending time
in these places.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), do you prefer to study at home or in a library? !! (Why?)

Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
27
Task 1
What are the couples enjoying about these types of holidays?
28
Task 2
Why are the students spending time in these places?
29
Choosing an artistic career
three).
Here are some artistic careers some people decide to embark on and a question for you to
Now, talk to each other about why people decide to embark on these artistic careers.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which careers would be the easiest and
which would be the most difficult.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• Do you think enough people become artists

nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What do you think are the advantages and
disadvantages of becoming an artist nowadays?
• Some people believe that being an artist is not
a real job. Do you agree? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you believe schools and universities help people to become artists

nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• In your opinion, should art be as important in schools as other subjects?
• Do you think that people would visit museums more often if they were cheaper or
free? !! (Why? / Why not?)
30
acting painting
Why do people decide
to embark on these
artistic careers?
31
music circus performer
sculpting
Test 3 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
32
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 4
33
And your names are?
Thank you.

Shopping
• How often do you go shopping for clothes? !! (Why?)
• Do ever go shopping with friends or family? !! (Which do you prefer?) !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you prefer to buy things online or in a physical shop? !! (Why?)
• Have you ever had a problem when shopping? !! (Tell us about it.)
Cooking
• Who does most of the cooking at home? !! (Why?)
• Do you enjoy cooking? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• How much time do you spend cooking every day? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there a dish you particularly enjoy making? !! (Why do you enjoy it?)
Employment
• Do you have a job at present? !! (What do you do?)
• Do you think you spend too much time working? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• If you could choose, what kind of job would you like to have in the future? !! (Why?)
• Is there a job you would really not like to do? !! (What job is it?) !! (Why?)
34
1 Reading carefully 2 Spending time outdoors
Interlocutor In this part of the test, I’m going to give each of you two photographs. I’d like you to talk about
your photographs on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question about your
partner’s photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people reading
something in different situations.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think it is important to read
carefully in each situation.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), what kind of things do you enjoy reading? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people spending their time
outdoors for different reasons.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people might be
spending their time outdoors.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), do you prefer to spend your free time outdoors or indoors? !! (Why?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
35
Task 1
Why is it important to read carefully in each situation?
36
Task 2
Why might the people be spending their time outdoors?
37
Using the internet
Interlocutor Now, I’d like you to talk about something together for about two minutes (3 minutes for
groups of three).
Here are some ways in which young people use the internet nowadays and a
question for you to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Now, talk to each other about how young people use the internet nowadays.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide the reason why most young people
use the internet nowadays.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• What do you think are the greatest

advantages and disadvantages of using the
internet?
• Do you think that young people use the
internet in a responsible way?
• Some people believe that children and teenagers shouldn’t be allowed to
use the internet on their own. What do you think? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Should children be taught how to use the internet at school or at home?

• Do you think that the internet will ever replace TV or newspapers?

• In your opinion, is shopping online is a good idea? !! (Why? / Why not?)
38
for checking their
doing their shopping

finances
How do young people
use the internet
nowadays?
39
reading the news using social media
keeping in touch with

friends
Test 4 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
40
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 5
41
And your names are?
Thank you.

Where you live
• Do you like the area where you live? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there something you would change about your neighbourhood? !! (What is it?) !! (Why?)
• Do your friends and family live near you? !! (Where do they live?)
• What’s the best way to travel in the area where you live? !! (Why?)
Emails and letters
• How often do you post letters nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you send emails very often? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• With whom do you normally communicate by email? !! (How often?) !! (Why?)
• Do you think you will send more or fewer emails in the future? !! (Why?)
College / school
• At the moment, do you go to college or secondary school? !! (Tell me more about it)
• How long do you spend every day at college/school? !! (Why / Why not?)
• Is there something you’d like to improve about your college/school? !! (What is it?) !! (Why?)
• Do most of your friends study with you? !! (Why? / Why not?)
42
1 Working with animals 2 Receiving presents
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people working with
animals in different situations.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think might be difficult about
working with these animals.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), would you like to have a job working with animals? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people receiving presents on
different occasions.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the presents might be
important for the people who receive them.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), when was the last time you received a present? !! (Did you like it?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
43
Task 1
What might be difficult about working with these animals?
44
Task 2
Why might the presents be important for the people who receive them?
45
Living abroad
groups of three).
Here are some reasons why people decide to move abroad and a question for you to
Now, talk to each other about whether it is good for people to decide to move abroad.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide what is the best reason for people
to move abroad.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• Is it possible to learn a new language without

travelling abroad? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do many foreigners decide to live in your
country? !! (Why do you think that is?)
• In recent years, foreign travel has become extremely popular. Do you think
this is a good thing? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you think that tourism has more advantages than disadvantages?

!! (Why?)
• How do you think the way we travel might change in the future?
• Many people believe that their own country is the best place to live. What do
you think? !! (Why? / Why not?)
46
learning a new
setting up a business
language
Is it good for people to
decide to move abroad?
47
looking for a job meeting new people
studying for a degree

Test 5 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
48
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 6
49
And your names are?
Thank you.

Animals and pets
• Do you like animals in general? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Are you afraid of any animals in particular? !! (Which ones?)
• Have you got any pets? !! (What pet do you have?) !! (Why not?)
• What’s the most popular pet in your country? !! (Why do you think that is?)
Healthy habits
• Is it important for you to keep healthy? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What have you done in the past to keep healthy? !! (Tell us more about it.)
• Do most people in your country have a healthy diet? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there something you could do to be healthier? !! (What is it?)
Keeping in touch
• Do you live near your best friends? !! (Where do they live?)
• How do you keep in touch with your friends and family?
• How often do you text the people who are close to you? !! (Is that enough in your opinion?)
• Is texting the best way to keep in touch with people? !! (Why? / Why not?)
50
1 Waiting patiently 2 Professionals discussing
Interlocutor In this part of the test, I’m going to give each of you two photographs. I’d like you to talk
about your photographs on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question about
your partner’s photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people waiting for
something in different places.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think it might be important to
keep calm in these situations.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), in which situation would you get most nervous? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show teams of professionals
discussing something at work.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think they might be discussing.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), in which situation do you think the discussion is more important? !! (Why?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
51
Task 1
Why might it be important to keep calm in these situations?
52
Task 2
What might the teams be discussing?
53
Taking care of the environment
groups of three).
Here are some things we can do to take care of the environment and a question for
you to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Now, talk to each other about how effective these ideas are when taking care of the
environment.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which idea is the easiest to put into
practice in your everyday life.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• Is there anything else we can do to look after the

environment? !! (What is it?)
• Do you think that people in your country do
enough to protect the environment?
• In your opinion, who should do more to protect the environment: citizens or
governments? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people believe global warming is not a real problem. What do you think?
• Many people believe that it’s too late to save the environment. Do you agree?
• Should teachers be responsible for teaching children to recycle?

54
recycling paper and cycling to work /
plastic school
How effective are these
ideas to take care of the
environment?
55
installing solar panels
driving electric cars
at home
avoiding plastic bags

Test 6 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
56
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 7
57
And your names are?
Thank you.

Journeys
• How did you get here today? !! (Did you drive here?) !! (Why?)
• Is there a journey you often make? !! (What’s it like?)
• How regularly do you take the bus/train? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What’s the best way to move around the area where you live?
Arts
• Are you an artistic person? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Did/do you study arts in school? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• If you could, would you like to work as an artist? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Are there any artists in your country that you admire? !! (Why do you admire them?)
Computers
• Do you own any electronic devices? !! (Which one(s)?) !! (Why not?)
• How often do you use a computer? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What do you normally use computers for?
• Are computers useful if you don’t have an internet connection? !! (Why? / Why not?)
58
1 Trying to concentrate 2 Doing the shopping
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people trying to
concentrate while doing different activities.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say how difficult you think it is for the people to
concentrate in these situations.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), do you find it easy to concentrate when you’re studying? !! (Why?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people doing their shopping in
different places.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people have decided to do
their shopping in these places.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), in which of these places would you prefer to do your shopping? !! (Why?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
59
Task 1
How difficult is it for the people to concentrate in these situations?
60
Task 2
Why have the people decided to do their shopping in these places?
61
Improving life in the city
groups of three).
Some people say cities should try to attract tourists, but other people disagree.
Here are some things that can be done to improve life in a city and a question for you
to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Now, talk to each other about whether these things would attract more tourists or
improve life for the locals.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which change would benefit both
tourists and locals the most.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• What other things can cities do to attract

more visitors?
• Do you think that visitors can have a
negative impact on a city? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What are the main advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city?
• Some people believe that building cycling lanes in cities is the best way to
fight air pollution. Do you agree? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there an important change that you would like to see in the area where
you live? !! (What is it?) !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people believe that parks and green spaces are important for life in
the city. What do you think? !! (Why?)
62
building more parks improving roads

Would these changes
attract more tourists or
improve life for the
locals?
63
opening a shopping
opening more hotels
centre
building a subway
Test 7 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
64
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 8
65
And your names are?
Thank you.

Flying
• Are you afraid of flying? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Have you ever had a bad flight? !! (Tell us about it.)
• When was the last time you travelled by plane? !! (Where did you go?)
• Which do you prefer: travelling by plane or by train? !! (Why?)
Travelling abroad
• What do you like to do when you’re on holiday? !! (Why?)
• Do you enjoy travelling abroad, or do you prefer to stay in your own country? !! (Why?)
• What’s the best thing about your country for tourists? !! (Why?)
• When you travel abroad, what kind of accommodation do you book? !! (What’s good about it?)
Advice
• Are you good at giving advice? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• When was the last time you gave advice to someone? !! (Tell us about it.)
• In what situations do you ask for advice? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Who do you ask for advice when you need it? !! (Why?)
66
1 Learning in different ways 2 Means of transport
about your photographs on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question
about your partner’s photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people learning in
different ways.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think the advantages are of
learning in these ways.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), how would you prefer to learn a new language? !! (Why?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people travelling to work
using different means of transport.
Place Part 2 booklet, open at Task 2, in front of Candidate B.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people have decided
to use these means of transport.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), do you use public transport regularly? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
67
Task 1
What are the advantages of learning in these ways?
68
Task 2
Why have the people decided to use these means of transport?
69
Improving a local college
groups of three).
I’d like you to imagine that a local college has money to improve their facilities.
Here are some things they can spend their money on and a question for you to
Now, talk to each other about how these things would improve the local college for
students.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which two things the college
should invest the money in.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• Do you think studying at university should

be free for everyone? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there anything you would change about
universities in your country? !! (Why?)
• Some people believe that everyone should study at university.
• Do you think young people should study what their parents want them to
study? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Nowadays it is very popular to study for a year abroad. Do you think this is
a good idea? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• How can students benefit from taking a gap year before studying?
70
buying more books
building a car park

for the library
How would these things
improve the local
college for students?
71
setting up a computer creating a student
room card with discounts
employing more staff

at the canteen
Test 8 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
72
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 9
73
And your names are?
Thank you.

Celebrities
• What kind of celebrities are most famous in your country? !! (What are they famous for?)
• Do you admire any national or international celebrities? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Would you like to become a celebrity one day? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there something you would like to become famous for? !! (What is it?) (Why not?)
Extreme sports
• Do you do any extreme sports? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Have you ever had an injury while doing sport? !! (What happened?)
• Would you like to try any dangerous sports in the future? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• If you could, would you warn people against doing some extreme sports? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Money and jobs
• Do you live in an expensive area? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is money important to you? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Would you like to have a job with a high salary? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• What’s more important to you: having money or free time? !! (Why?)
74
1 Taking a break 2 Using electronic devices
about your photographs on your own for about a minute, and also to answer a question
about your partner’s photographs.
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people taking a
break in different situations.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think it might be important for
these people to take a break.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), when do you need to take a break? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people using electronic
devices in different situations.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people have chosen
to use these electronic devices.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), which electronic devices do you use every day? !! (Why?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
75
Task 1
Why might it be important for these people to take a break?
76
Task 2
Why have the people chosen to use these electronic devices?
77
Reducing traffic in cities
groups of three).
Here are some measures countries can take to reduce traffic in their cities and a
question for you to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Now, talk to each other about how these measures can help to reduce traffic in cities.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide which measure would be the most
effective in the long term.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• In your opinion, what can people do to

reduce traffic in big cities? !! (Is this easy to
achieve?)
• Is traffic a big problem in the area where you
live? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people say that driving is the best way to travel. Do you agree?
• What would be the advantages and disadvantages of not owning a car?
• Some people believe that cars and petrol are responsible for global warming.
What do you think? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• In the future, do you believe people will drive more or less than now?
!! (Why?)
78
increasing the price of increasing taxes for
petrol car owners

How can these
measures help to
reduce traffic in cities?
79
Improving public
building bike lanes
transport
banning cars from

some areas
Test 9 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
80
Cambridge
B2 First
Speaking
Test 10
81
And your names are?
Thank you.

Adventure activities
• Are you an adventurous person? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Have you ever been on an adventure holiday? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you enjoy doing extreme sports like climbing? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Is there an adventure sport you’d like to do in the future? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Being at home
• Do you live in a house or an apartment? !! (Do you like it?) !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Have you always lived in the same house/apartment? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• How much time do you spend at home every day? !! (Do you think it’s enough?) !! (Why?)
• What do you like to do when you’re at home? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Languages
• How long have you been learning English? !! (When did you start?)
• Will English be useful to you in the future? !! (How?) !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you speak any other languages? !! (Which one(s)?) !! (How did you learn it/them?)
• If you had the time, which other languages would you like to learn? !! (Why?)
82
1 Spending the weekend 2 Taking pictures
(Candidate A), it’s your turn first. Here are your photographs. They show people spending their
weekends in different places.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say why you think the people have decided to
spend their weekend in these places.
All right?
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate B), where would you prefer to spend your weekend? !! (Why?)
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Now, (Candidate B), here are your photographs. They show people taking pictures of
different things.
I’d like you to compare the photographs, and say what you think the people will do with
the pictures after taking them.
All right?
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
1 minute
(Candidate A), do you normally take pictures of your food? !! (Why? / Why not?)
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
83
Task 1
Why have the people decided to spend their weekend in these places?
84
Task 2
What will the people do with the pictures after taking them?
85
Young people earning money
groups of three).
Some people believe that students should have a part-time job, but other people
disagree. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of students having a part-
time job and a question for you to discuss. First you have some time to look at the task.
Now, talk to each other about whether students should have a part-time job or not.
Candidate A
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Interlocutor Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide what the best reason is to have a
job when you are a student.
Candidate B
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.
Part 4
• Do you think it is a good idea to have a job

while you’re in college? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do most young people in your country have a
job while they are studying? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Some people prefer to have one job their whole life instead of several
different jobs. What about you? !! (Why?)
• Would you like to have a job that pays well even if you don’t have much free
time? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• Do you think that working from home is a good idea? !! (Why? / Why not?)
• In general, how do you think employers can make their employees happier?
86
earning their own

having less free time
money
Should students have a
part-time job?
87
having less time to becoming more
study responsible
being able to travel

more
Test 10 – Part 3
Task 3
DD MM YY Candidate
Marks awarded
Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5
Item descriptors


• Intelligibility
Pronunciation
• Intonation
• Word stress

speakers.
Assessment notes
88
Model answers
The B2 First is usually taken by candidates who want to obtain a B2-level certificate, which corresponds to
an upper-intermediate level of English. As described by the Common European Framework of Reference
for Languages (CEFRL), candidates with a B2 level are considered independent vantage users, thus
being able to understand the main ideas of complex tests, to interact with a certain degree of fluency and
spontaneity both in written and oral form, and to produce clear and detailed texts on a range of subjects.
The purpose of the following model answers is to provide teachers and candidates with an example of
language production and test performance that would score a high mark in a real B2 First Speaking test.
Without being particularly complex, these answers contain grammatical and lexical features as well as a
range of discourse resources suited to an upper-intermediate level of English (B2). Please note that
complete linguistic accuracy is not expected at B2 level, but only candidates whose performance is
generally accurate will receive a high mark.
On page , to complement the answers, there are comments highlighting different aspects such as
the strategies candidates make use of to address some of the parts, the way they express their opinions,
how they interact with one another, etc. The aim of these comments is to draw the reader’s
attention to important details that might help to achieve a successful performance in this part of
the B2 First examination.
89
Test 1 – Part 1 Model answers
Holidays and travelling
• When was the last time that you went on holiday? The last time I was on holiday was last summer.
(What did you do?) I went to Scotland for three days with my parents and we had a really good time.
• When you’re on holiday, how do you like to travel? When I’m on holiday, I love travelling by plane and by
train. (Why?) The plane is really fast, so it’s great, and the best thing about the train is that you can enjoy the
landscape while you travel.
• How often do you travel abroad? Maybe once a year, because I spend most of my summer holidays
abroad. (Would you like to travel more?) !! (Why?) Of course. I think travelling’s the best way to spend
your holidays and you can learn a lot from it.
• Is there a country that you would really like to visit in the future? Yes, definitely, I’d love to visit Australia
some day. (Why?) I believe it’s a beautiful country with lots of things to see.
Free time
• How do you like to spend your free time? !! (Why?) I spend most of my free time with friends or
watching TV at home.
• How much free time do you have? Not very much at the moment: I’m studying and I have a part-time job at
the weekends, so I’m usually quite busy. (Do you think it’s enough?) Not really. I mean, I’m fine with it, but
sometimes I feel a little stressed and I would like to take some time off.
• Do you prefer to spend your free time alone or with friends? !! (Why?) I’d rather spend my time with
friends, honestly. I think it’s a lot more fun and interesting to do things with friends than alone.
• Is there a new leisure-time activity you’d like to try? !! (Which one?) Oh, yes. I’d love to try skiing. I’ve
never done it before and I think I would enjoy it. (Why?) Well, I like snow and I already do snowboarding, so I
believe skiing could be fun too.
Television
• Do you enjoy watching TV? !! (Why? / Why not?) No, not very much. Nowadays, I only watch series
and films on my computer, because most of what there is on TV is quite boring.
• Do you think people spend too much time watching TV nowadays? !! (Why? / Why not?) Yes, for
sure. Most people watch too much TV, and I think there are better things to do than watch TV all day long.
• Have you ever appeared on TV? (Tell us about it.) When I was a kid, I appeared once on TV. It was fun. I
think a local TV station came to my school and they recorded us for one of their programmes, but I don’t
remember exactly why.
• Is there a programme you particularly enjoy watching? !! (Tell us about it.) Well, as I said before, I
don’t watch much TV, but if I have to say something, I do enjoy watching some animal documentaries from
time to time. I love animals, and some of these documentaries are really well made.
90
Model answers Test 1 – Part 2
1 Spending time together
Task 1 – Candidate A: What are the people enjoying about spending time together?
Both of these pictures show some people spending time together doing different things. In the first picture, we can
see a family on the beach – it’s actually a couple with a baby – whereas the second picture shows another couple,
but, in this case, they seem to be moving into a new house – I think they’re actually planning the decoration.
Obviously, the main difference between both pictures is where they’re spending their time, given that in the first
picture they’re on the beach, while in the second they’re at home. Moreover, the reason why they’re spending time
together is also completely different. On the one hand, the parents and the baby are spending some quality time
together, as a family. The couple, on the other hand, are planning their new-house decoration, which is not a
leisure-time activity. As for what they’re enjoying, well, I suppose in both cases they just like spending time with
each other and doing things together, but I would say that, in the second picture, they’re also excited about their
new home and starting a new life together.
Task 1 – Candidate B: Do you often spend time with your family?
Well, really, not as often as in the past. Nowadays, I’m studying in a different city and I’m not living with my parents
at the moment, so I only spend time with them, maybe, a couple of times a month, when I go home for the
weekend.
2 Eating out
Task 2 – Candidate B: Why have the people chosen to eat in these places?
Let me see! Okay, in the first picture, I can see a couple of women eating together in an office – I mean, I believe
it’s an office. They seem to be on their lunch break and they’re probably colleagues. I think they’re eating some
Chinese or Japanese takeaway – they’re using chopsticks – and they might not have enough time to go home to
have lunch. Maybe their lunch break is not very long so they’d rather eat in the office.
The second picture is obviously very different because these people are in a pizza restaurant, not at work. They
seem to be having a very good time, and they look younger than the women in the first picture – I think they’re
teenagers. I guess the reason for eating in that place is probably because they’re celebrating someone’s birthday, or
maybe they are just enjoying lunch together as friends. I suppose they prefer going to a restaurant where their meal
is served for them, instead of preparing something themselves at home.
Task 2 – Candidate A: Where do you usually eat with your friends?
Well, it depends, really. If it’s just a regular weekend, we might go to a bar or an informal restaurant to grab a bite.
However, if it’s a special occasion, like someone’s birthday, we’d probably have a barbecue in someone’s house. I prefer
barbecues, to be honest.
91
Test 1 – Part 3 Model answers
Choosing a place to study
Task 3 – Candidates A & B: Talk to each other about the advantages and disadvantages of studying in these
places.
Candidate A Would you like to start?
Candidate B Sure. Well, studying in your bedroom is usually a good idea because you’re alone and there aren’t
many distractions. However, if you’re alone with your laptop and your phone, it’s extremely easy to
get distracted, don’t you think?
Candidate A Yes, you’re absolutely right. You need to avoid that kind of distraction when you’re studying on your
own in your bedroom. As for studying in a friend’s house, I believe it’s okay for some tests, but
maybe not for others. I mean, if it’s something you need to learn by heart, studying with a friend is
probably not the best choice. What do you think?
Candidate B I completely agree with you, but if it’s something like maths or chemistry, you can help each other,
right?
Candidate A Yes, exactly. And what about going to the library to study?
Candidate B Well, this is something that many people do, isn’t it? I suppose it’s because you need to be in
silence and the atmosphere is suitable for studying. Don’t you agree?
Candidate A Yes, it’s probably one of the best options. The way I see it, it’s much better than studying in the
living room, isn’t it?
Candidate B I was just going to say that. In my view, studying in the living room is a really bad idea, because, if
there are other people at home, you will be distracted by the noise and you will be interrupted. And
! how about the park?
Candidate A Well, I would never study in a park. I think the park’s only good to spend your free time with friends,
or maybe for reading.
Interlocutor: Thank you. Now you have about a minute to decide what is the best place to study during exam
periods.
Candidate A Shall I start now?
Candidate B Yes, of course.
Candidate A Okay, if I had to choose one I would say that studying in your bedroom is probably the best option,
or maybe in the library. What do you think?
Candidate B I’d rather study in the library. That way you can avoid some distractions like the laptop or your
phone, don’t you think?
Candidate A Yes, you may be right. That’s probably the best option.
Candidate B Okay, so do we have an agreement?
Candidate A Yes, let’s choose the library.
92
Model answers Test 1 – Part 4
• Do you think that we study the right subjects at school?

Well, honestly, I think we study the right subjects, but probably not in the right way. What I mean is that while we
need to study maths, history and other subjects like that, in my opinion, we should study them in a more practical
way, not only memorising facts and stuff like that. I believe that’s useless because after the test you just forget
most of it.
• Some people believe that practical experience is more useful than studying theory.
Yes, I completely agree. In my case, for instance, I can say I have learnt more by doing some training sessions
with practical exercises than at home studying my notes. I think it’s because practical experience is easier to
remember in the long term – it’s more memorable.
• Do you believe teachers should be paid a higher salary than sportspeople?

Of course. I know that’s impossible, but teachers do a more important job than people who do sport
professionally. The problem is that nobody is interested in teachers, while millions of people support sports
teams and players. I don’t think it’s fair.
• Some people say that teachers and children get too many holidays.
What do you think?
I don’t agree at all. The truth is they spend many hours every day at school and that’s not easy. I think teachers
deserve their holidays, even more than the pupils. I suppose other workers are just green with envy, that’s all.
• Do you think that parents and teachers have the same responsibility in children’s education?
No, I don’t. This is a very difficult question, but I believe that both parents and teachers are responsible for
children’s education, but in different ways. Parents ought to teach children to be good people, responsible and
hardworking, whereas teachers should only be responsible for teaching them the different subjects. However, the
situation is much more complex than that.
• Some people say that it’s more important to study science than history.
What’s your opinion?
Actually, I agree with that. I believe that we have to study history, as we must understand our past, but, on the
other hand, I suppose that scientific progress is more important than that. So yeah, I’d say that science is more
important than history.
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Model answers – Part 1 – examiner’s comments
In Part 1, candidates are asked about themselves, their background and experiences. Candidates are
expected to expand on their answers, but these should not turn into a monologue. If the answer given to
a question is particularly short, if appropriate, the examiner will probably ask a follow-up question.
For example:
Main question How often do you travel abroad?

Maybe once a year, because I spend most of my summer holidays
abroad.
Follow-up question Would you like to travel more?

Of course. I think travelling’s the best way to spend your holidays and
you can learn a lot from it.
These questions are scripted and the interlocutor will never improvise them. Given the nature of the
conversation, these answers should sound natural and non-rehearsed. For example:
Main question Is there a new leisure-time activity you’d like to try? ……. (Which
one?)
Oh, yes! I’d love to try skiing. I’ve never done it before and I think I
would enjoy it.
Follow-up question Why?

Well, I like the snow and I already do snowboarding, so I believe skiing
could be fun too.
Sounding natural is part of being fluent in a language, so using some informal expressions (Oh),
exclamations, contractions (I’d love to) or discourse markers (Well) is actually encouraged.
As for rehearsed answers, examiners expect that some of the candidates’ answers might sound
rehearsed, but if they are lengthy and sound too unnatural, candidates might be politely interrupted.
As this is a B2-level speaking test, candidates’ answers should show B2-level grammar and vocabulary,
even in Part 1. For this reason, in the model answers provided for Part 1, there are some appropriate-
level phrases like:
I’d rather spend my time with friends … Nowadays, … take some time off … a part-time job …
the best thing about the train is that …Yes, definitely, …
Part 1 is probably not the most suitable part for candidates to prove their level, but they should still try to
show what they know.
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In Part 2, each candidate is asked to compare two pictures and answer a question about them. Also,
they will have to answer a follow-up question regarding their partner’s pictures. This is a chance for
candidates to show how well they can speak on their own in a longer turn. For this reason, not only are
candidates’ grammar and vocabulary expected to be good, but there is special emphasis on their
discourse management – i.e. how long they can speak for, how relevant their contributions are and how
well they organise their speech.
The language candidates use
If we take a look at Candidate A’s and Candidate B’s comparisons, we notice that they:
• use appropriate B2 grammar and vocabulary:
it’s actually a couple with a baby … they seem to be moving into a new house … given that…
a leisure-time activity … quality time … starting a new life together … takeaway … chopsticks
… they might not have enough time to go home … they’d rather eat in the office … they look
younger than … I guess the reason for … their meal is served for them … instead of
preparing something themselves … etc.
• use cohesive devices and discourse markers to organise his/her speech:
Both of these pictures … In the first picture … whereas the second picture shows … … while
… Moreover, … On the one hand, … On the other hand, … As for … Let me see, … I mean,
… etc.
• not only describe, but rather speculate:
I believe … They seem to be … I think … They might not have … Maybe … I suppose … I
would say … etc.
How candidates organise their speech
It’s also important to notice how both candidates organise their speech as they use different strategies to
approach this part of the test.
On the one hand, Candidate A chooses to briefly describe both pictures first. Then he/she compares
them, pointing out the main differences and, finally, he/she addresses the question directly (What are the
people enjoying about spending time together?).
On the other hand, Candidate B uses a different strategy, focusing on each picture separately,
describing each picture more thoroughly, comparing the second picture with the first, and providing an
answer to the question (Why have the people chosen to eat in these places?) for each picture.
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Both ways of doing this task are perfectly fine, but candidates need to know that some comparison and
speculation is essential – rather than providing a simple description of both pictures – and that they have
up to 60 seconds to provide their answers.
Follow-up question
The follow-up question is always related to the topic of the pictures. In fact, sometimes candidates will be
asked to choose the most suitable one with regard to their preferences.
The answer should normally be addressed from a personal point of view and it should expand beyond a
one-phrase sentence.
Candidates have up to 30 seconds to provide a suitable answer to the follow-up question and, if
appropriate, it is advisable that they make the most of that time.
In Part 3, candidates will hold a conversation about a topic that is presented in the form of a question and
some prompts that provide ideas for this conversation. For this reason, Part 3 is the main collaborative
task of the exam, as it is to be carried out in pairs.
The main purpose of this part of the test is to see how well candidates can interact with each other by
discussing and exchanging views and opinions, asking for opinions, justifying their answers, agreeing
and disagreeing with each other, reaching agreements, making decisions, etc.
Notice the following elements in the sample answer on page X:
• Expressing views and opinions:
is usually a good idea … you need to avoid … I believe it’s okay to … that’s probably one of
the best options … the way I see it … In my view … I’d rather study … I would never study …
I think the park is …
• Asking for opinions:
don’t you think? … What do you think? … right? … And what about…? … Don’t you agree? …
isn’t it? … how about…? … do we have an agreement?
• Agreeing and disagreeing:
Yes, you’re absolutely right … I completely agree with you … Yes, exactly … I was just going
to say that … Yeah, you may be right … I’d rather …
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All of these expressions show that candidates are capable of initiating, responding and linking
contributions to each other’s turn, and that they can develop a successful interaction and negotiate
towards an outcome.
Finally, it is extremely important that this part does not turn into two separate, individual turns at speaking
rather than a seamless interaction.
Therefore, candidates should avoid lengthy answers and should try to involve their partner at the end of
each turn.

In Part 4, candidates are asked questions that stem from the topic developed in Part 3. These are
usually more complex questions and they will have to answer them either individually or as a short
conversation with their partner.
The main goal of this part is to produce longer stretches of language in which candidates show their
ability to discuss a topic to a more complex extent. It is, therefore, a great opportunity for candidates to
give answers that are organised and insightful, and to make sure that their grammar and vocabulary are
as good as that expected for a B2-level exam.
Some examples of good answers are as follows:
Do you think that we study the right subjects at school? …… (Why? / Why not?)
Well, honestly, I think we study the right subjects, but probably not in the right way. What I mean is that
while we need to study maths, history and other subjects like that, in my opinion, we should study them
in a more practical way, not only memorising facts and stuff like that. I believe that’s useless because
after the test you just forget most of it.
The candidate is expanding on his/her initial premise (I think we study the right subjects, but probably not
in the right way) by using a phrasal discourse marker like “What I mean is that…”. Also, the language
used is usually appropriate (in a more practical way … not only memorising facts … that’s useless …
forget most of it), but also natural (honestly … stuff like that).
Some people say that teachers and children get too many holidays. What do you think?
I don’t agree at all. The truth is they spend many hours every day at school and that’s not easy. I think
teachers deserve their holidays, even more than the pupils. I suppose other workers are just green with
envy, that’s all.
In this case, the candidate is clearly and strongly disagreeing with the statement provided by the
examiner (I don’t agree at all), and then justifying it (The truth is … I think … I suppose). Also, apart from
97
suitable grammar and vocabulary, he/she uses an idiomatic expression (green with envy). Although
idioms are not essential to obtain a good mark, they are expected at a strong B2 level.
Some people say that it’s more important to study science than history. What’s your opinion?
Actually, I agree with that. I believe that we have to study history, as we must understand our past, but,
on the other hand, I suppose that scientific progress is more important than that. So yeah, I’d say that
science is more important than history.
This is also a good answer for several reasons: it features good grammar, like the correct use of modal
verbs (must understand), great organisation (But on the other hand,), speculation (I suppose … I’d say)
and a natural-sounding ‘round-off’ answer (So yeah, I’d say that …).
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B2 First: Speaking Parts

Timing 2 minutes (pair) / 3 minutes (trio)

Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate

Timing 4 minutes (pair) / 6 minutes (trio)

Focus Describing, comparing, expressing opinions and speculating.

Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate

Timing 4 minutes (pair) / 5 minutes (trio)

Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate – Candidate

Timing 4 minutes (pair) / 6 minutes (trio)

Interaction Interlocutor – Candidate – Candidate

Is the Speaking exam taken individually or in pairs?

Can candidates choose to do the test with a friend or classmate?

Do candidates have to speak with each other at some point?

How many people are there in the Speaking room?

In Part 3, must candidates reach an agreement by the end of the task?

In Part 3, do candidates have to talk about all the different prompts?

Where does the Speaking exam take place?

How is the Speaking exam marked?

Can the other candidate’s performance affect a candidate’s score?

Can I memorise some answers for the exam?

Good morning/afternoon/evening. My name is !!!!! and this is my colleague !!!!! .

And your names are?

Can I have your mark sheets, please?

• Where are you from, (Candidate A)?

First, we’d like to know something about you.

Holidays and travelling

• When you’re on holiday, how do you like to travel? !! (Why?)

• How do you like to spend your free time? !! (Why?)

• Do you enjoy watching TV? !! (Why? / Why not?)

• Have you ever appeared on TV? (Tell us about it.)

• Is there a programme you particularly enjoy watching? !! (Tell us about it.)

Cambridge B2 First: Speaking Test 1 – Part 2

1 Spending time together 2 Eating out

Place Part 2 Task 1, in front of Candidate A.

Interlocutor Thank you.

Place Part 2 Task 2, in front of Candidate B.

Interlocutor Thank you.

What are the people enjoying about spending time together?

Cambridge B2 First: Speaking Test 1 – Part 2

Why have the people chosen to eat in these places?

Choosing a place to study

Place Part 3 Task 3, in front of the candidates. Allow 15 seconds.

2 minutes (3 minutes for groups of three)

Interlocutor Use the following questions, in order, as appropriate:

• Do you think that we study the right

Interlocutor Thank you. That is the end of the test.

Cambridge B2 First: Speaking

a bedroom What are the the park

Grammar and vocabulary 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5

Discourse management 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5

Pronunciation 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5

Interactive communication 0 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 4.5 5

• Degree of control of grammatical forms.

• Stretches of language produced.

• Use of appropriate cohesive devices and discourse markers.

• Initiating, responding and linking contributions to those of other

Good morning/afternoon/evening. My name is !!!!! and this is my colleague !!!!! .

And your names are?

Can I have your mark sheets, please?

• Where are you from, (Candidate A)?